Sanford Middle School eighth-grader Xyla Kurz holds her 2025 Citizenship Award, flanked by school counselor Colleen Quartararo (left) and School Resource Officer Joe Jordain (right).
Photo: Sanford School Department
Compiled by Carolyn Cadigan
SMS student recognized for community engagement and citizenship: Sanford Middle School (SMS) student Xyla Kurz has been selected as the 2025 recipient of the Maine Secretary of State’s Eighth Grade Citizenship Award. This honor recognizes students throughout Maine who demonstrate exceptional academic success as well as a strong commitment to community service, civic leadership and positive citizenship. Kurz was selected as one of only three students to represent SMS at Girls Day at the State House — a special event focused on empowering future female leaders. She was chosen not only for her strong voice and leadership abilities, but also for her talent in asking meaningful questions and bringing out the best in her peers.
From her earliest days at SMS, Kurz has exemplified what it means to be a thoughtful and empathetic leader. Her former fifth-grade teacher, Kristi Peters, recalled a story that captures Kurz’s character. Kurz surprised each of her classmates with hand-drawn bookmarks featuring birds on Valentine’s Day. The bird on each bookmark was chosen by Kurz to reflect that classmate’s personality and interests. “This small but profound act showed us how deeply Xyla observes and appreciates others,” noted Peters.
Kurz’s commitment to her school community shines through her involvement in multiple activities, including theater, band and the Civil Rights Team. Her teachers consistently describe her as hardworking, kind, respectful and a true role model. Teacher Dan Stefanilo noted that in physical education, Kurz not only gives her best effort, but also “uplifts and supports her peers.” Read the full story here.
Get artsy and support the Sanford school music program: Sanford Music Boosters has partnered with Hammer and Stain York County for a fundraiser that invites participants to create summer beach totes. The event will take place on June 22, 11 am – 1 pm, at the studio at 890 Main St., Suite 205, in Sanford. Pre-registration, which closes June 15 at 6 pm, is required. The cost is $45 per person. To sign up, go here.
Vacation bible schools offer a roaring good time: Two sessions have been scheduled in June for ROAR Vacation Bible School — one at St. Matthew Parish in Limerick from June 17 to 19, 5 – 7 pm, and the other at St. Thérèse of Lisieux Parish in Sanford (held at St. Thomas School) from June 24 to 26, 8:30 – 11:30 am. The cost is $18 per child and includes a t-shirt, crafts, a snack or light meal, and bible memory buddy/cards. FMI, go here.
Athletes compete in one of the races at the Adaptive Track and Field event at Carl J. Lamb Elementary School on May 29.
Photo: Sanford School Department
CJL hosts athletic festival for adaptive athletes: The second annual Adaptive Track and Field event on May 29 at Carl J. Lamb Elementary School brought together students, families, staff and community members for a celebration to cheer on their adaptive athletes. The event was organized by health and physical education teacher Tatyana Wolterbeek, working alongside David Eldridge and IEP Coordinator Kathy McCall. The day’s athletic events included the 100-yard run, 50-yard dash, standing long jump, turbo javelin throw, softball throw and parachute activities.
The parade of athletes and opening ceremony allowed the entire school community to celebrate and recognize their adaptive athletes — an opportunity that doesn’t always present itself during the regular school year. New for this year’s event was inviting parents to watch their children compete. “Our goal was to show the parents and general education staff how our students can shine in an adaptive setting,” explained Wolterbeek.
One of the most touching aspects of the day was seeing fourth-grade students step up as volunteers, helping each participant feel included and supported. The event also featured volunteers from the school chorus, high school students, support staff, and School Resource Officer Joe Jourdain, who presented medals to each participant. “To see our athletes rise to the occasion, cheer each other on, while also being fierce competitors, and receive a medal for their teamwork simply warms your heart,” shared CJL Principal Sherri Baron. “The pride on the faces of our athletes is something that stays with you.”
Middle school JMG students reflect on the year’s experiences: Sanford Middle School (SMS) hosted its annual Jobs for Maine Graduates (JMG) closing ceremony on June 5, celebrating a year of career development and academic achievement. The evening featured guest speaker Steve Hughes, chief technology officer at Kennebunk Savings Bank and a JMG alumnus. Hughes shared his personal journey from a high school student unsure of his direction to a technology leader. He credited his JMG specialist with guiding him toward military service, which became a pivotal decision that shaped his career path. Hughes offered practical wisdom to the students, emphasizing three key principles: “Be a good person. Be a good person to your other classmates, be there for your teachers, be there for your family, be there for your friends, and work hard… make good choices… learn from mistakes.”
Following staff appreciation awards, student voices took center stage, delivering presentations about their transformative experiences through JMG. Aubrey Shaw shared JMG’s influence in helping her improve attendance and get through the school year, while Katie Waters spoke about overcoming her fear of public speaking and discovering new abilities through JMG. Isabella Burns reflected on JMG’s focus on planning for the future and the opportunities presented that challenged her to step out of her comfort zone. JMG helped Aya Bissell-Moores discover leadership abilities, open-mindedness and confidence.
SMS JMG Specialist Tara Houle thanked parents for their support throughout the year as well as the school administration for supporting the program’s ambitious activities, which included 22 different guest speakers, events, and trips over nine months. JMG helps Maine students graduate, pursue post-secondary education, and build meaningful careers. Read more here.
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